Andretti Unites with Team Principal Ruzewski and Will Power for a Dynamic Return to Team Leadership and Racing Excellence

Andretti Global Appoints Former Penske Executive Ron ruzewski As IndyCar Team Principal

September 27, 2025, 1:55 PM ET
Charlotte, N.C.

Andretti Global has made a meaningful leadership change, naming Ron Ruzewski, formerly of Team Penske, as the new team principal of its IndyCar team. The appointment, announced Wednesday, comes after a tumultuous period for Penske, marked by a scandal surrounding modified car parts during the Indianapolis 500 qualification rounds.Ruzewski is slated to begin his new role in January.

Shifting Leadership at Andretti and team Penske

Ruzewski’s arrival at Andretti Global will see him take the helm from Rob Edwards, who will transition into the role of chief performance officer for TWG Motorsports, the parent company of the emerging Cadillac F1 team set to debut in 2026. This strategic move underlines TWG Global’s growing influence in motorsports.

The appointment notably reunites Ruzewski with veteran driver Will Power, who recently signed with Andretti Global after a season of uncertainty with Team Penske. Power’s contract with Penske remains a point of contention,with some critics alleging unfair treatment given the team’s subsequent acquisition of David Malukas.

The situation raises questions about potential conflicts of interest, specifically concerning Team Penske’s ability to balance its ownership stake in the IndyCar Series and its competitive interests. Holding Power’s contract, while simultaneously allowing Malukas to prepare for the 2026 season, has drawn scrutiny.

The Aftermath of the Indianapolis 500 Scandal

Ruzewski’s departure from Team Penske was part of a larger shakeup following the discovery of illegally modified components on the cars of Josef newgarden and will Power before the 109th Indianapolis 500. This incident marked the second significant compliance issue for Penske within a little over a year. Alongside Ruzewski, Team Penske President Tim Cindric and IndyCar general manager Kyle Moyer were also dismissed.

Moyer has as joined McLaren Racing, while Cindric, a Hall of Famer with penske, remains without a team affiliation.His long-standing tenure with Penske suggested he was a likely successor to Roger Penske, but recent developments have altered that trajectory.

Andretti’s Ambitions Under New Ownership

These changes occur under the leadership of Dan Towriss,who assumed majority ownership of andretti Global after the 2024 season. Towriss has demonstrated a clear commitment to revitalizing the team and expanding its presence in both IndyCar and Formula 1. His efforts were instrumental in securing a spot for the Cadillac F1 team after a long request process.

Andretti Global has also forged a technical partnership with Dale Coyne Racing for 2026, which will allow reigning INDY NXT champion Dennis Hauger to transition into IndyCar. Hauger dominated the 2025 INDY NXT season, securing six wins and seven pole positions.

The 2026 Andretti global IndyCar lineup is shaping up to be formidable, featuring Will Power, Indianapolis 500 winner Marcus ericsson, and Kyle Kirkwood. Colton Herta will transition to a test and reserve driver role with Cadillac F1 as he seeks to obtain the necessary super license for Formula 1 participation, this move creating an opening for Power’s arrival.

Key Players and Future Outlook

Name	Current Role	Previous Affiliation
Ron Ruzewski	Team Principal,Andretti Global IndyCar	IndyCar Managing Director,Team Penske
Will Power	Driver,Andretti Global IndyCar	Driver,Team penske IndyCar
Dan Towriss	Majority Owner,Andretti Global	Investor/Businessman
Colton Herta	Test & Reserve Driver,Cadillac F1	Driver,Andretti Global IndyCar

Power,45,proved his consistency during a challenging 2025 season for penske,securing the only two wins for the team – one at Portland and the other in the season finale. The upcoming season promises a dynamic shift in the landscape of indycar, with these strategic moves setting the stage for intense competition.

Did you Know? the Indianapolis 500 is the highest-attended single-day sporting event in the world, typically drawing crowds exceeding 300,000.

Pro Tip: Keeping up with driver and team transitions is crucial for understanding the evolving dynamics of IndyCar. Follow official team announcements and reputable motorsport news sources for the latest updates.

The Evolving Landscape of IndyCar and Open-Wheel Racing

The recent developments signify a broader trend in motorsports, with increased investment and competition across multiple series. The entry of manufacturers like Cadillac into Formula 1, coupled with the growing popularity of IndyCar, demonstrate the sustained interest in open-wheel racing globally. indycar’s official website provides insightful data on viewership and fan engagement.

The growing emphasis on driver advancement programs, like the INDY NXT series, is also critical for ensuring a steady pipeline of talent into the premier racing leagues. This focus on nurturing young drivers will undoubtedly shape the future of the sport.

Frequently Asked Questions About IndyCar and Recent Developments

• What is IndyCar? IndyCar is the premier open-wheel racing series in the United States, known for its high speeds and competitive racing.
• Who is Ron Ruzewski? Ron Ruzewski is a former IndyCar managing director at Team Penske who was recently appointed team principal of Andretti global’s IndyCar team.
• What caused the scandal at Team Penske? The scandal involved the discovery of illegally modified parts on the cars of Josef Newgarden and Will Power during the Indianapolis 500 qualification rounds.
• What is the significance of the Andretti-Coyne partnership? The partnership allows Andretti Global to nurture emerging talent like Dennis Hauger, providing a pathway for drivers from the INDY NXT series to IndyCar.
• What is Dan Towriss’s role in Andretti Global? Dan towriss is the current majority owner of Andretti Global and is leading efforts to rebuild and strengthen the team.
• how does the Power-Malukas situation impact the competitive balance? The situation raises concerns about fairness and potential advantages for Team Penske, delaying Power’s availability to other teams.
• What is the future outlook for Andretti Global? With new leadership and strategic partnerships, Andretti Global is poised to become a major contender in both IndyCar and Formula 1.

what are your thoughts on Andretti Global’s recent moves? Do you think these changes will shift the competitive balance in IndyCar?

Share your opinions in the comments below!

How will Ruzewski’s strategic planning skills specifically contribute to Andretti Autosport’s performance in the 2026 IndyCar season?

A New Era for Andretti Racing

Andretti Autosport has announced a meaningful restructuring of its leadership, bringing together seasoned expertise to propel the team back to the forefront of IndyCar competition. This strategic move sees the appointment of seasoned motorsports executive, Ruzewski, as Team Principal, alongside the continued involvement of racing legend, Will Power, in a key leadership role. This collaboration aims to leverage collective experience and drive a new wave of success for the iconic racing team. The focus is on maximizing performance, fostering innovation, and strengthening the team’s competitive edge in the demanding world of IndyCar racing.

Ruzewski’s Proven Track Record as Team Principal

ruzewski brings a wealth of experience to Andretti Autosport, having previously held leadership positions with several prominent racing teams. His background is deeply rooted in strategic team management, technical development, and driver support.

* Strategic Planning: Ruzewski is known for his ability to develop and implement long-term strategic plans that align with team objectives.

* Technical Expertise: A strong understanding of race car engineering and data analysis allows him to optimize performance on and off the track.

* Team Building: Ruzewski excels at fostering a collaborative and high-performance team environment.

* Budget Management: Proven ability to manage resources effectively and maximize return on investment.

His appointment signals Andretti’s commitment to a data-driven and strategically focused approach to racing. This is a critical step in the competitive landscape of IndyCar, where marginal gains can make all the difference.

Will Power’s Expanded Role: Beyond the Driver’s Seat

While continuing his driving career, Will Power will assume a more prominent role within Andretti’s leadership structure. This isn’t simply a symbolic gesture; Power’s decades of experience and intimate knowledge of the team’s dynamics are invaluable.

* Driver Mentorship: Power will actively mentor younger drivers within the Andretti stable, sharing his insights and expertise.

* Technical Feedback: his detailed feedback on car performance and handling will be crucial for the engineering team.

* Race Strategy Input: Power’s racecraft and strategic thinking will contribute to race-day decision-making.

* Team Ambassador: Leveraging his popularity and standing within the sport to enhance team visibility and sponsorship opportunities.

This expanded role allows Andretti to capitalize on Power’s unique skillset, extending his impact beyond the cockpit. it’s a testament to his dedication and leadership qualities.

The Synergy: Ruzewski & Power – A Winning Combination?

The pairing of Ruzewski’s managerial acumen with Power’s racing intelligence creates a potentially powerful synergy. ruzewski provides the organizational structure and strategic direction, while Power offers real-time insights and a deep understanding of the driver’s outlook.

This combination addresses a key need in modern motorsport: bridging the gap between engineering, strategy, and the driver experience. Effective communication and collaboration between these elements are essential for maximizing performance.The goal is to create a cohesive unit where every member contributes to a shared vision of success.

Impact on Andretti’s IndyCar Program

this leadership overhaul is expected to have a significant impact on Andretti’s IndyCar program across several key areas:

1. Enhanced Car Development: A more focused approach to car development, driven by data analysis and driver feedback.
2. Improved Race strategy: More informed and adaptable race strategies, leveraging Power’s experience and Ruzewski’s analytical skills.
3. Stronger Driver Lineup: Enhanced driver development and mentorship programs to nurture emerging talent.
4. increased Sponsorship Value: A more compelling and marketable team, attracting increased sponsorship investment.

Andretti’s History of Racing Excellence

Andretti Autosport boasts a rich history of success in IndyCar, with multiple championships and Indianapolis 500 victories. This new leadership structure builds upon that legacy, aiming to restore the team to its former glory. Key milestones include:

* 2005 IndyCar Series Championship: Andretti Green Racing (precursor to Andretti Autosport) secured its first championship title.

* 2007 Indianapolis 500 Victory: Dario Franchitti’s historic win marked a turning point for the team.

* Multiple Driver Championships: Successive championships with drivers like Tony Kanaan, Ryan Hunter-Reay, and Josef Newgarden.

* Continued Expansion: Diversification into other racing series, including Formula E and Australian Supercars.

Looking Ahead: The 2026 indycar Season and Beyond

the focus now shifts to the 2026 IndyCar season and beyond. with Ruzewski and Power at the helm, Andretti Autosport is poised to challenge for championships and continue its tradition of racing excellence. The team will be closely watched by fans and competitors alike, as it embarks on this new chapter. key areas of focus will